Knee Pain

Physical Therapy for Knees

Due to the knee’s complicated structure and its constant heavy use, it is one of the most common joint injury complaints. Indeed, knee injuries are the cause of around 10 million visits to the doctor or physiotherapist each year.

Physical therapy helps reduce knee pain and enables the knee to retain its strength and health particularly during recuperation from injury.

Common Knee Complaints

Though there are many reasons that a patient may need to seek out the help of a qualified physical therapist, listed below are the most common complaints we see. Make sure you contact us if you have suffered any of the following injuries.

Fractures

The patella or kneecap is the most frequently fractured bone of the knee, though the bones around it are also open to fracture. The elderly and those who suffer from osteoporosis are vulnerable to fracturing the patella. Knee fractures also commonly occur in car crashes.

ACL Injuries

Injury to the ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is often reported in soccer, basketball, skiing, and other sports, where quick changes in direction apply too much pressure to the ACL. Depending on the severity of the case, an ACL injury can require surgery and a lengthy recovery including work with a physical therapy clinic.

Dislocation

Dislocation of the knee can happen at any point, though playing sports or high-impact events like a high fall or car crash are the most common causes. During dislocation, the bones of the knee joint come out of place. This can be extremely painful and can require on-going treatment.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the name given to the swelling of the protective fluid sacs around the knee. This is a common complaint of gardeners or manual workers who spend a lot of time putting pressure on their knees.

Physical therapy, pain management, and draining of fluid can all be required.

Patellofemoral Syndrome

This syndrome is characterized by knee pain ranging from severe to mild discomfort seemingly originating from the contact of the posterior surface of the patella (back of the kneecap) with the femur (thigh bone). It is commonly caused by an imbalance of the muscles of the leg causing the patella to “track” improperly.

Patellar Tendonitis

This condition comes from repetitive stress on the knee, most often from overuse in sports or exercise. The repetitive stress on the knee creates tiny tears in the tendon that, over time, inflame and weaken the tendon.

How Our Physical Therapy Clinic Can Help

We offer specialized knee physical therapy to help our clients regain the highest level of mobility and strength that their individual situation allows. In addition to gaining strength and mobility, therapy will also help reduce inflammation and pain.

With expert and hands-on guidance from our physical therapists, you will undergo a thorough course of rehabilitative and strengthening techniques to aid in the recuperation of your knee joint. For expert physical therapy in the Seattle area, set up an appointment with our physical therapists today.